Amberjack

The 270 Amberjack offers the best of both worlds for sports-minded families-comfortable cruising plus a full-feature fishing package. The stylish cockpit includes versatile seating and built-in storage, while the spacious cabin below features a convenient galley and dinette, elegant V-berth and full-size head with vanity and shower.

Belowdecks is a galley with a large counter, an enclosed head with a shower, and 6'-long V-berth. Hardwood cabinetry, a vinyl headliner, and such details as four opening ports make this space comfortable for a week-ending couple. The companionway steps open, revealing access to the shower sump and a trash can. There's no aft cabin. Instead, a huge in-sole cockpit stowage box resides where other builders might shoehorn a berth.

Because of this, the 270 Amberjack's cockpit lies on a single level from the windshield to the folding transom bench. It's self-bailing, which enhances safety and makes washing away sand, scales, or spilled soda a breeze. A wonderful back-to-back lounge converts to a long bench or a chaise with headrest. The captain sits in a swivel bucket at the no-glare helm.

The insulated fish box chills your catch as easily as it stows cold beverages. Rod racks are under each gunwale, but anglers will be interested in the added Fish Pack, which includes an aluminum arch, four rod holders, a live well, a carry-on cooler, and a sink with sprayer and cutting board.

Powered by a single 320-hp MerCruiser 6.2 MPI Horizon Bravo Three stern drive, the boat planes readily enough for family skiers. It cornered well, thanks to its transom deadrise, and provides pleasant cruising at 29 mph, where it netted nearly 2 mpg